One on One with MBO Partners' Gene Zaino

In recent years, the so-called "gig economy" has permeated massive industries from transportation to travel to finance. Now it's reached the consulting…

| September 27, 2017

In recent years, the so-called "gig economy" has permeated massive industries from transportation to travel to finance. Now it's reached the consulting profession in a big way as firms are looking beyond their roster of full-time employees and tapping into pools of contract or project-based talent. This new breed of independent consultants report greater health and happiness, more overall job satisfaction, and increased flexibility, according to MBO Partners CEO Gene Zaino. We caught up with Zaino to discuss the rise of the independent consultant and the effect it's having on the profession.

Consulting: What's the biggest factor that has given rise to the so-called gig economy?

Zaino: The biggest one is probably technology, which has made it easier for people to work when they want, where they want, and also has made it easier for marketplaces to be assembled that enable projects to find people and people to find projects. Another is the fact that our economy has become much more volatile and agile. That's driven by economic changes, most recently the big recession. But with global competition and startups, and people looking over their shoulders to what's happening next, things changing so fast makes it much more desirable for companies to buy talent on a more just-in-time basis. When things are moving so fast it's much more convenient if you can find and acquire the service and result you want on a more project basis. Employment is a long-term decision, using contract workers is an easier, quicker decision and you're not making that long-term commitment, you can just buy what you want when you want it. 

To continue reading, become an ALM digital reader

Benefits include:

  • Complimentary access to Consulting Magazine Online and digital edition
  • Bi-monthly digital newsletter delivered to your inbox
  • 1 free article* every 30 days to Consulting Magazine's sister publications
  • Exclusive discounts on events and publications produced by ALM

You Might Like

Terms of UsePrivacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.